Hyundai confirms i20 N to arrive in 2020 after brand’s hiatus

The i20 N’s engine changes and chassis modifications will mirror that of the i30 N, so expect significantly more firepower than the supermini’s existing engine range and suitable lowering and stiffening of the car’s suspension, alongside performance brakes and more direct ratio steering.

The most likely engine candidate to boost performance to the desired level will be the brand’s widely turbocharged 1.6-litre ’T-GDI’ motor. It offers 174bhp in the Tucson SUV, but a figure of at least 200bhp will be necessary if Hyundai wants to successfully mix with the class big hitters like the Fiesta ST and VW Polo GTI.

Next in line will be a long-rumoured N-branded version of the Tucson. The hot SUV will push the envelope in terms of power for Hyundai, with over 300bhp expected to give it the performance potential to take on the Cupra Ateca. It will be supplemented by a four-wheel drive system, and is expected to arrive a few months after the i20 N.